Agreement by Cooperative Forces to Provide Military Support if Peace is Established in Ukraine

In a bid to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a coalition of 26 countries, including France and the United Kingdom, have agreed to provide troops or military presence on land, sea, and air as a security guarantee for Ukraine. This group, known as the "Coalition of the Willing," was formed following a meeting in Paris hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron.

The meeting, attended by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and other leaders, was held to discuss potential security measures and economic sanctions against Russia. Zelensky, in his discussions with US President Donald Trump, emphasised the importance of sanctions on Russia and the protection of Ukraine's airspace.

However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no interest in a peace accord, causing growing concern. Macron accused Russia of trying to play for time and intensifying attacks against civilians. In a tragic incident, a Russian rocket attack in northern Ukraine killed two people from the Danish Refugee Council who were clearing mines in an area previously occupied by Moscow's forces.

The US, represented by Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff, was "very clear" about its willingness to participate in security guarantees for Ukraine, but the American contribution remains unclear. Germany will decide on military involvement at an appropriate time once the framework conditions have been clarified.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is urging more pressure but is cautious about the scope of involvement within the coalition. The coalition's troops are intended to prevent any new major aggression but will not be deployed on the front line. A key aspect of the regeneration of the Ukrainian army is also being emphasised to resist and dissuade Russia from a new aggression.

Italy will not send troops to Ukraine, but it could help monitor any potential peace deal. Macron warned that if Russia continues refusing a peace deal, additional sanctions would be agreed in coordination with the United States. The White House has urged European countries to stop purchasing Russian oil that is funding the war.

Zelensky stated that strong economic measures are important to force an end to the war. The coalition's formation represents a new push led by Macron to show that Europe can act independently of the United States. Frustration has been building in the West over Putin's unwillingness to strike a deal to end the conflict, and this coalition could be a significant step towards resolving the crisis.